Fausto Cattaneo

Fausto Cattaneo is a Professor and Deputy Chair for Academic Affairs at the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics, University of Chicago. He is affiliated with the FLASH Center for Computational Science and conducts research in computational astrophysics and solar physics.

Dr. Cattaneo received his PhD from the University of Cambridge in 1984 and completed his undergraduate studies at Bristol University in 1979. His research focuses on computational modeling of fundamental astrophysical processes, particularly the generation of magnetic fields, transport of angular momentum in accretion discs, and energy transport by turbulent convection.

His work primarily investigates magnetohydrodynamic phenomena in astrophysical contexts, with particular emphasis on dynamo theory, turbulence, and the magnetorotational instability that drives accretion in disks. His research combines theoretical analysis with advanced computational techniques to model complex plasma behaviors in space environments, addressing questions about magnetic field generation and transport mechanisms across various cosmic scales.

Dr. Cattaneo's publication record demonstrates consistent focus on plasma astrophysics, magnetic helicities, dynamo action, and turbulence. His most recent work (2022) addresses research opportunities in plasma astrophysics, while his longstanding expertise in magnetorotational instability and MHD turbulence is evident throughout his publication history spanning several decades.

As Deputy Chair for Academic Affairs, Dr. Cattaneo plays an important administrative role in his department while maintaining an active research program that continues to advance our understanding of astrophysical plasma processes. His work bridges theoretical astrophysics and computational methods, contributing significantly to our knowledge of fundamental processes governing cosmic magnetic fields and fluid dynamics.